A Mississippi woman’s recent diagnosis is highlighting a growing trend: an increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults. Andrea Aguilar, 45, was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer despite experiencing no symptoms and having no family history of the disease. Her case underscores the importance of adhering to updated screening guidelines and overcoming potential barriers to preventative care.
Doctors are increasingly seeing colorectal cancer diagnoses in individuals under 50, prompting a shift in recommended screening ages. In the last four to five years, the screening age has been lowered from 50 to 45 due to this rising incidence, and some medical professionals are even questioning whether that age should be lowered further. Colorectal cancer remains the third most common cancer in the United States, excluding skin cancer, affecting approximately one in 23 men and one in 25 women over the course of their lifetime, according to current statistics.
Aguilar credits her latest physician with recommending a colonoscopy, an appointment she initially hesitated to schedule. “I really thought that the age was 50, so I thought that I had five more years,” she explained. She was shocked to learn of her diagnosis after the procedure. “You can go in and have no symptoms and for me, no symptoms, I walked out of the appointment with Stage 3 colon cancer.”
The experience has shed light on the often-overlooked emotional hurdles that can prevent individuals from seeking crucial screenings. Aguilar admitted to feeling embarrassed and apprehensive about the procedure itself. “I had heard all the stories and it, to me, felt like it was going to be something humiliating, potentially painful,” she said. However, she found the process to be professional and straightforward, noting the care team’s expertise and support.
The Importance of Early Screening
Dr. Ramon Brown, a colon and rectal surgeon at Singing River Health System, emphasizes that fear and discomfort surrounding colonoscopies are significant barriers to screening. “All the people who are going to work with you, engage with you, are going to be people who have seen it all, done it all, know what’s going on,” Dr. Brown said. “And they’re only there to help you out.” He also noted a concerning 2% annual increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses among individuals under the age of 50 over the past 20 years, a trend he’s observed firsthand. “I’ve seen more young people with colorectal cancer in the last couple of years than I’ve seen in the first 10 to 12 years of my career,” he stated, adding that he’s even seen patients in their early twenties with advanced disease.
Symptoms of early-onset colorectal cancer are similar to those in older adults and can include rectal bleeding, anemia, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits or stool consistency. However, as Aguilar’s case demonstrates, the disease can be present without any noticeable symptoms.
Aguilar’s Ongoing Treatment and Outlook
Aguilar is currently undergoing chemotherapy, with six months of treatment remaining. She acknowledges the challenges of chemotherapy, stating, “Chemo’s hard. Chemo’s really hard.” Despite the difficulties, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and appreciating the good days, crediting her care team with providing invaluable support throughout her journey.
The American Cancer Society provides comprehensive information about colorectal cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.
What’s Next in Colorectal Cancer Awareness
As awareness of early-onset colorectal cancer grows, medical professionals continue to emphasize the importance of early detection and preventative screenings. Doctors recommend that individuals aged 45 and older, or those with specific risk factors, discuss appropriate screening options with their healthcare providers. The ongoing research into the causes of this increasing trend in younger adults will hopefully lead to even more effective prevention and treatment strategies in the future.
Share this important information with your loved ones and encourage them to prioritize their health. What are your thoughts on the lowered screening age? Let us know in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
